Geisinger Doctor Named EMS Physician Of The Year Geisinger’s Chris Berry, M.D., has been named the 2026 EMS Physician ofthe Year by the Pennsylvania Department of Health and the Pennsylvania Emergency HealthServices Council, an independent advisory committee to EMS agencies across the state. Dr. Berry has been a physician in Geisinger Medical Center’s emergency room since 2024 andis the associate medical director for Geisinger EMS. He personally responds to emergenciesusing the Geisinger Physician Response Vehicle, working alongside EMS crews when not in theemergency room, and is the medical director for multiple central Pennsylvania EMS agenciesand fire departments. “I’m deeply grateful to receive this award from a community that means so much to me,” saidDr. Berry. “EMS professionals provide lifesaving care and are a cornerstone of our community,and it’s a real honor to be recognized by my colleagues in this way.” The EMS Physician of the Year award is chosen through peer nomination and an EMS votingcommittee. After reviewing nominations from across the state, the committee makes their finalchoice based on the nominee’s contributions to the delivery of EMS, clinical leadership andmentorship of EMS providers. Mark Bertollo, emergency medicine services coordinator and award nominator, says, “Chris isvery good at what he does and is very involved — he does trainings and education, he will workwith EMS on his day off and he often invites hospital residents to join him to further theireducation.” Dr. Berry was honored at a ceremony at Geisinger Medical Center in Danville on May 5 and willalso be recognized at the Pennsylvania State Capitol building in Harrisburg during EMS Week,May 17 to 23. This year’s award is in honor of Deno Gualtieri, D.O., a Pennsylvania EMS physician, agencymedical director and emergency department director who passed away earlier this year.
Geisinger School Of Medicine, NEPA Health Care Foundation Celebrate Milestones The Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine (GCSOM) and the Northeastern Pennsylvania Health Care Foundation (NEPA HCF) recently held their annual reception to review the progress and impact of the NEPA Health Care Foundation Scholars Program. The program continues to play a pivotal role in supporting medical students committed to serving the healthcare needs of Northeastern Pennsylvania. In October 2014, the board of the NEPA HCF approved a grant to GSCOM (formerly The Commonwealth Medical College). The grant established the NEPA HCF Scholars Program, funding scholarships for Doctor of Medicine (MD) students. To date a total of twenty student scholarships have been awarded through the NEPA HCF Scholars Program. This year the NEPA HCF renewed their scholarship support for the next three years. The renewed scholarship support will be awarded to 2-3 students per year over the next 3 years and will support an additional 6-9 students. “Investing in future physicians who are committed to serving Northeastern Pennsylvania is an investment in the long-term health and well-being of our community,” said Laura Ducceschi, administrator of the NEPA Health Care Foundation and President & CEO of the Scranton Area Community Foundation. “Through this partnership, we are helping to support students who want to build their careers here and strengthen healthcare access across our region for years to come.” The reception also focused on the group’s annual report, detailing the program’s achievements. Key accomplishments include the continued support of students through substantial scholarship awards and the reinforcement of partnerships aimed at enhancing healthcare access in the region. “The NEPA Health Care Foundation Scholars Program is a wonderful example of how strategic philanthropy and medical education can work together to strengthen our region’s healthcare system,” said Julie Byerley, M.D., M.P.H., Geisinger Commonwealth president and dean. “By investing in our students and encouraging them to stay and practice in northeastern Pennsylvania, we’re building a healthier future—one physician at a time.” First row Left to Right: Dr. Peter Cognetti, Board Chair, Dr. Julie Byerley, President of Geisinger College of Health Sciences, Dr. Kristen Richards, Caitlin Doughton, Alexis Blackburn, Evan Florey, Catherine Mihalick and Dr. Joseph Bannon, Second Row Left to Right: Dr. Jason Woloski, Laura Ducceschi, President/CEO of the Scranton Area Foundation, Dr. Shubhra Shetty, Tonyehn Verkitus, Atty. Joseph Burke, Michael Cordaro, Dr. Patrick Connors, Thomas Tulaney, Michael Clemente and Atty. Terrence Nealon
Geisinger Receives Support For New Critical Care Transport Vehicle Geisinger Health Foundation has secured funding for a new Critical Care Ground Transport (CCGT) vehicle to support patients across Geisinger’s Northeast region, thanks to a generous contribution from Coterra through Pennsylvania’s Neighborhood Assistance Program (NAP) administered by the Department of Community and Economic Development. The specialized vehicle will expand Geisinger’s ability to safely transport critically ill and injured patients between hospitals and care facilities while providing advanced, intensive care capabilities during transport. Designed as a mobile critical care unit, the CCGT vehicle allows specially trained teams to deliver the same high level of care patients would receive in an intensive care setting while en route to the most appropriate facility for treatment. Funding for the vehicle was made possible through the Neighborhood Assistance Program, a state tax credit initiative that encourages businesses to invest in projects that improve the health and well-being of communities across Pennsylvania. Through the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development’s Neighborhood Assistance Program (NAP), Special Program Priorities (SPP), and Coterra’s generous support, this important investment into Geisinger’s critical care transport fleet was possible. “This investment strengthens our ability to deliver lifesaving care when patients need it most,” said a Nancy Lawton-Kluck, Geisinger chief philanthropy office . “The new Critical Care Ground Transport vehicle will help ensure that patients throughout our Northeast region have timely access to the advanced care and specialized services available across the Geisinger system. We are incredibly grateful to Coterra and the Neighborhood Assistance Program for their partnership and commitment to the communities we serve.” Coterra’s support through the Neighborhood Assistance Program reflects a shared commitment to improving access to high-quality healthcare throughout the region. By investing in projects like this, the company is helping ensure that patients across Northeast Pennsylvania can receive the specialized care they need, when and where they need it. The addition of the new Critical Care Ground Transport vehicle further enhances Geisinger’s ability to provide coordinated, high-acuity care across its network of hospitals and facilities, ensuring patients receive the right level of care as quickly and safely as possible.
EMPOWER 2026 Draws More Than 900 Attendees as Jodi Kantor Headlines Transformational Day of Leadership More than 900 professionals from across northeastern Pennsylvania and beyond gathered Thursday, April 30, at Kalahari Resorts and Conventions for EMPOWER, The Leadership Experience, presented by Geisinger; a premier annual event designed to inspire, connect, and elevate leaders at every stage of their journey. Headlined by nationally recognized journalist and author Jodi Kantor, the conference delivered a powerful and forward-thinking program centered on leadership, growth, and action. Kantor, best known for her Pulitzer Prize-winning investigative reporting at The New York Times, brought a compelling message to the EMPOWER stage, drawing from her latest book, How to Start. Her keynote challenged attendees to rethink how meaningful change begins, encouraging individuals to take initiative, embrace uncertainty, and lead with purpose in their professional and personal lives. The day began with an energizing breakfast keynote from Dr. Katie P. Desiderio, an organizational learning and leadership scholar, executive coach, and national bestselling author, who set the tone for the experience with a message focused on resilience, mindset, and intentional leadership. Her remarks encouraged attendees to reflect on their personal and professional paths, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness and the power of leading with clarity and confidence in times of change. Throughout the day, EMPOWER offered a dynamic and immersive experience featuring more than 45 regional speakers across breakout sessions, panel discussions, and moderated conversations. Attendees engaged with nearly 40 small businesses in the vendor marketplace and participated in wellness-focused programming, sponsored by Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield, led by nine presenters, creating opportunities for both personal and professional development. EMPOWER featured several immersive experiences designed to inspire and engage attendees throughout the day. The Dream Tree, sponsored by Luzerne County Community College, invited participants to write down and display their aspirations, serving as a powerful reminder that their goals are within reach. New for 2026, Johnson College sponsored the Leadership Lounge, a space where attendees could recharge both personally and professionally while enjoying fresh popcorn and convenient device charging. Fidelity Bank also sponsored a dynamic Content Studio, giving attendees the opportunity to step in, strike a pose, and showcase the power of you. The next generation of leaders was also a central focus, with more than 80 high school students taking part in the EMPOWER TEEN Program, sponsored by The Honesdale National Bank. The experience provided students with early exposure to leadership development, mentorship, and career exploration. Bob Durkin, president of The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce, emphasized the impact of the event on the region’s workforce and leadership pipeline. “I am pleased that the Empower Program continues to resonate with business professionals and students across northeastern Pennsylvania and beyond. I think this speaks to the quality and value of the programming that addresses the interests of participants at all levels of professional development. I also want to acknowledge and thank our many sponsors and partners who make this program a success, year after year,” Durkin said. EMPOWER continues to grow as a cornerstone leadership event for the region, bringing together individuals from diverse industries and backgrounds to share ideas, build connections, and drive momentum forward. The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce will host the next EMPOWER conference on April 22, 2027. Check out the 2026 EMPOWER Conference photos at this link.
Keynote Speakers Announced for EMPOWER, The Leadership Experience The Greater Scranton Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce the keynote speakers for this year’s EMPOWER, The Leadership Experience, presented by Geisinger. The annual conference is a full-day event dedicated to elevating leadership, strengthening organizations, and driving meaningful impact across the region. Opening the conference as the Breakfast Keynote Speaker, sponsored by Peoples Security Bank & Trust, is Dr. Katie P. Desiderio, assistant vice president and professor at Moravian University and founder of Proximal Development. Dr. Desiderio is an organizational learning and leadership scholar, executive coach, and national best-selling author of The Beekeeper and The Stargazer. With more than two decades of experience in leadership development and change management, she equips leaders with practical strategies to unlock measurable and sustainable growth at every level of an organization. Serving as the Lunch Keynote Speaker, sponsored by PNC Bank, is Jodi Kantor, Pulitzer Prize-winning investigative journalist with The New York Times and best-selling author. Kantor’s reporting has uncovered critical issues surrounding power, law, gender, technology, and culture, work that has led to meaningful change across industries and institutions. She and her colleagues were awarded the Pulitzer Prize for Public Service for their groundbreaking investigation into decades of alleged abuse by Harvey Weinstein, reporting that sparked a global reckoning and reshaped standards worldwide. In April 2026, Kantor will release her newest book, How to Start: Discovering Your Life’s Work, offering inspired wisdom and practical strategies to help individuals at every stage of their careers advance and reimagine their professional paths. Beyond its keynote presentations, EMPOWER will feature an impressive lineup of regional breakout and panel speakers representing diverse industries and leadership journeys. Attendees can expect a dynamic agenda designed to foster collaboration, inspire innovation, and provide actionable insights for today’s evolving workplace. EMPOWER continues to serve as a cornerstone leadership event for the greater Scranton region, bringing together executives, entrepreneurs, emerging leaders, and community stakeholders for a day of connection and growth. To view the full speaker roster, explore the conference agenda, and register, visit the conference website.
Geisinger expansion strengthens commitment to Schuylkill County Geisinger is strengthening its commitment to offering access to high-quality health care options to the residents of Schuylkill County with a $2.5 million expansion of Geisinger Cancer Center Pottsville. The expanded facility will add new services, support staff and treatment space, resulting in more access to care for the community and surrounding region. Chief administrative officer of Geisinger’s central region, Alex Zimmerman, talked about how this expansion made him feel as a lifelong Schuylkill County resident. “Geisinger is committed to enhancing care for our neighbors across the region… I’m proud to see this expansion as it will allow more of our friends and family to receive these critical services locally, without having to travel,” Zimmerman said. The cancer center, at 1 E. Norwegian St. in Pottsville, will gain nearly 2,000 square feet of space on top of the existing 3,760-square-foot footprint. To make room for the expansion, a tenant will be relocated to the second floor of the building. The cancer center will occupy the entire first floor. Work on the expansion will be completed in phases to minimize interruptions. Services will remain open for the duration of the project. The facility provides hematology and radiation oncology services, infusion and medicine infusion. With an aging population and earlier cancer diagnoses on the rise, the need for comprehensive cancer care is increasing, underscoring the importance of investing in modern, expanded treatment facilities. The added space will expand upon the services offered and doubles the cancer center’s patient care areas, including new exam rooms and infusion spaces, along with a new dedicated blood draw area. It also adds staff and office spaces. The Pottsville cancer center opened in 2018 and complements the services Geisinger offers throughout central and northeastern Pennsylvania, including at Geisinger Medical Center and the Frank M. and Dorothea Henry Cancer Center at Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center. The project also demonstrates Geisinger’s continued commitment to local outpatient cancer services, in conjunction with Geisinger Cancer Center Dickson City, which opened in 2025, and current construction of a new cancer center in Lewisburg, expected to open later this year. Rajiv Panikkar, M.D., chair of the Geisinger Cancer Institute, said the expansion will allow more patients to stay closer to home while they are going through treatment. “Our cancer program features top-tier physicians and advanced practice providers who work with comprehensive multidisciplinary care teams to establish treatment plans, while also providing the latest technologies and clinical trials for our patients,” Panikkar said. Geisinger offers a comprehensive portfolio of outpatient services to serve the health needs of residents of Schuylkill County, including family medicine, women’s health, pediatric subspecialties, laboratory and imaging. The cancer center expansion project is in design and work should begin later this year. Completion is expected in 2027. To learn more about cancer care at Geisinger, visit geisinger.org/cancerinstitute.
Applications Open for Geisinger Hospital Elder Life Program Geisinger Bloomsburg Hospital, Geisinger Community Medical Center, Geisinger Medical Center and Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center are accepting volunteer applications for the Hospital Elder Life Program (HELP) Help is a unique opportunity to make a difference in the lives of older adults. Traditionally designed for college students studying health care, HELP is now expanding to include adults (18+) with an interest in health care including retired doctors, nurses or other healthcare professionals. HELP volunteers receive specialized training to support patients age 65 and older through therapeutic activities, patient and family education, and mobilization and socialization. These interventions help prevent cognitive and functional decline during hospitalization. Volunteers who meet requirements may qualify for: Leadership opportunities Physician and advanced practitioner shadowing opportunities A letter of reference for medical school or other healthcare programs HELP runs year-round, with three application periods: Summer semester Apply: February Orientation: Mid-May Service begins: May Fall semester Apply: May Orientation: Early September Service begins: September Spring semester Apply: September Orientation: Mid-December Service begins: December/January Applications for the summer 2026 semester are open now. Those interested should apply online at go.geisinger.org/elderlife. For more information, call 570-808-6124 or email Deanna Dunning, program manager, at ddunning@geisinger.edu.
Geisinger Junior Volunteer Program Applications Are Open Geisinger Community Medical Center, Geisinger Lewistown Hospital, Geisinger Medical Center and Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center are accepting applications for the Junior Volunteer Program (JVP). JVP is a six-week summer program designed to engage high school students ages 15 to 18 in meaningful service and interactive learning experiences while exploring health care careers. Applications are accepted from Sunday, Feb. 1, through Friday, Feb. 20, for the 2026 program. The JVP offers students the opportunity to: Contribute through hands-on volunteer service Learn about a variety of health care career paths Make a positive impact in their communities Earn awards for the hours they serve Returning second- and third-year participants can also apply to become JVP Leaders, gaining leadership training, mentorship and firsthand experience in patient care and hospital operations. Program requirements include an online application, references, essay, interview and orientation. Participants must commit to 40 service hours, 15 educational hours and attend at least five of the six program weeks. Interested teens can apply and find key dates and details at geisinger.org/juniorvolunteer. For more information, email volunteers@geisinger.edu or call 570-214-6021.
Geisinger’s Jason W. Mitchell Named to HAP Board Geisinger’s chief medical officer, Jason W. Mitchell, M.D., is among the newest members of the Hospital and Healthsystem Association of Pennsylvania’s (HAP) board of directors. He started a 3-year term this month that runs through December 2028. The HAP board includes up to 28 health leaders from across the state in any year. HAP is a statewide organization that advocates on behalf of Pennsylvania hospitals and health systems to advance high-quality, accessible and financially sustainable health care. HAP includes most Pennsylvania hospitals among its more than 235 member organizations. Its board sets the association’s strategic direction and priorities related to fostering a robust hospital community and promoting access to high-quality care across the state. “I am thrilled and humbled to join the HAP board. This is such a critical time for health care, with ongoing challenges and critical changes in care delivery and payment models across the landscape – including right here in Pennsylvania,” said Dr. Mitchell. “Just as we are doing at Geisinger for our patients and communities across central and northeastern Pennsylvania, HAP can help lead the charge statewide as we strive to continue to improve access to high-quality, high-value care, in both rural and urban settings.” A practicing family physician, Dr. Mitchell oversees a medical staff of nearly 1,800 physicians and 1,200 advanced practice providers at Geisinger. He joined Geisinger last March after spending 2 decades at Presbyterian Healthcare Services in Albuquerque, N.M., where he was chief medical and clinical transformation officer for more than 10 years. “I am proud to welcome Dr. Mitchell to HAP’s board of directors,” said Nicole Stallings, HAP’s president and chief executive officer. “Dr. Mitchell brings a wealth of experience leading clinical teams and driving value-based care. As an accomplished physician and hospital leader, he knows the difficulties that clinicians face each day and is committed to supporting caregivers’ health and wellness.” Prior to joining Presbyterian in 2006, Dr. Mitchell spent 3 years as medical director of the University of New Mexico’s not-for-profit Locum Tenens Program, where he oversaw program operations and quality for primary and specialty care physicians serving rural and urban populations. Dr. Mitchell is a national speaker and author of numerous value-based care articles and presentations, as well as on topics ranging from strategy and business transformation to payment models and population health.
Geisinger To Host Nutrition and Weight Management Presentation Click here for additional information.
